Accused Montville HS Principal To Retire Early: Update

MONTVILLE, CT — Jeffrey Theodoss, Montville High School's principal charged in connection with the school's fight club scandal, will retire this month, according to Montville Public Schools.

"I email you today to share Jeff Theodoss’ decision to retire effective at the end of August," wrote Acting Superintendent Laurie Pallin Monday in an email to the district. "Believing that it is in the best interests of the district, Jeff has decided to retire four months earlier than he originally planned. He reached the difficult decision that it would be best for students and staff to have consistent leadership as we begin the 2018-2019 school year."

Theodoss, Superintendent Brian Levesque and high school Assistant Principal Tatiana Patten have all pleaded not guilty of failure to report an abusive situation, and those charges are still pending.

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The case stems from a now-fired substitute teacher, Ryan A. Fish, who allegedly supervised slapboxing fights between students in a closed classroom.

Theodoss was principal of the school since 2012. In the interim, administrator Heather Sangermano has been in charge at the high school, but the district will begin the process of finding a permanent replacement.

"A dedicated leader, Jeff worked tirelessly to meet the needs of students in the classroom, on the athletic field, and in co-curricular activities," wrote Pallin. "In his five years as principal at Montville High School, Jeff increased the graduation rate, reduced behavior referrals, increased the percent of students on track for graduation, and saw the school twice named to the Advanced Placement Honor Roll. He developed strong relationships with students, staff, and parents, and he will be greatly missed."

Below is the full text of Pallin's email to the district:

Good afternoon,

I email you today to share Jeff Theodoss’ decision to retire effective at the end of August. Believing that it is in the best interests of the district, Jeff has decided to retire four months earlier than he originally planned. He reached the difficult decision that it would be best for students and staff to have consistent leadership as we begin the 2018-2019 school year. The Board has scheduled a special meeting for tomorrow evening to address filling the principal’s position.

A dedicated leader, Jeff worked tirelessly to meet the needs of students in the classroom, on the athletic field, and in co-curricular activities. In his five years as principal at Montville High School, Jeff increased the graduation rate, reduced behavior referrals, increased the percent of students on track for graduation, and saw the school twice named to the Advanced Placement Honor Roll. He developed strong relationships with students, staff, and parents, and he will be greatly missed.

I wish Jeff the very best in his retirement and hope that he takes advantage of opportunities for well-deserved relaxation and time with his family.

Laurie

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